We use cookies. Find out more about it here. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our use of cookies.
#alert
Back to search results
New

Director, Development and Gift Planning - University Advancement

Carnegie Mellon University
vision insurance, paid time off
United States, Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh
5000 Forbes Avenue (Show on map)
Aug 04, 2025

Carnegie Mellon is enjoying the most productive fundraising years in its history, raising more than $950M over the last three years. University Advancement (UA) supports the entire CMU community in building relationships with key constituencies and securing the financial resources the university needs to continue its ascent. As the division grows, we are seeking aDirector, Development and Gift Planning to join the team. This is an exciting opportunity if you thrive in an interesting and challenging work environment.

Reporting to theExecutiveDirector, Development and Gift Planning, your primary responsibilities will be to qualify, engage, solicit, and steward prospective planned giving donors and other high net worth prospects, serve as a philanthropic advisor, and collaboratively craft creative giving options, including both planned and outright major gifts, tailored to the individual circumstances of each donor. You will also be expected to work independently while also being a solid team contributor to both the Development and Gift Planning office and the division of University Advancement.

Your core responsibilities will include:

  • Identifying and cultivating gift planning and other high net worth prospects independently and in coordination with individual giving officers across the university. Heavy emphasis on personal visits with both prospects and/or their advisors.

  • Preparing and delivering gift planning strategies and proposals including detailed analysis of the various aspects of each gift plan.

  • Working with prospects, their advisors, and individual giving officers to complete and implement the proposed gift plan. Coordinating gift acceptance with the University Treasurer and the Office of the Chief Investment Officer.

  • Delivering appropriate follow-up correspondence and required IRS documentation.

  • Maintaining on-going personal contact with donors who have completed a gift plan.

  • Participating in various gift planning marketing efforts as time and necessity warrant.

  • Building and maintaining positive working relationships with TIAA Kaspick.

  • Reading, networking, attending conferences and seminars, preparing and delivering presentations, and the like, maintaining an up-to-date knowledge of all financial, tax and legal ramifications pertaining to charitable giving, as well as innovations and creative ideas in the gift planning field.

  • Other duties as assigned.

You should demonstrate the ability to:

  • Understand and articulate the objectives of the University Advancement division and to integrate and execute individually assigned goals within those objectives.

  • Lead, participate in, and advise all aspects of a donor's gift process and to maintain consistent stewardship contacts with assigned donors.

  • Work with sensitive information, maintain confidentiality and use discretion.

  • Prioritize work and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

  • Work independently and in small teams.

  • Manage difficult situations while maintaining composure.

In addition, you should demonstrate:

  • Excellent verbal, written and interpersonal skills.

  • Strong planning, organizational, and supervisory skills.

You should be able to travel domestically and be willing to work outside of normal business hours as needed.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree is required; master's degree preferred.

  • Seven years of demonstrated development and successful gift planning experience, preferably in higher education.

  • Familiarity and experience in law, finance, marketing and sales is preferred.

  • Strong knowledge of the principles of fundraising and gift planning vehicles.

  • Broad knowledge of the tax, financial, and legal aspects of charitable giving.

  • A combination of education and relevant experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.

Requirements:

  • Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license and successfully complete a driver's license verification on an annual basis. Must complete the National Safety Council Defensive Driver Training once every three years.

  • Successful background check.

Additional information:

  • Sponsorship:Applicantsfor this positionmustbecurrentlylegallyauthorized to workfor CMUin the United States. CMU will notsponsor or take over the sponsorship of an employment visa for this opportunity.Carnegie Mellon is not a qualifying employer for the STEM OPT benefit: only the 12-month OPT may be used to work at Carnegie Mellon.

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits.

Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits, take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays, and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance.

Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and much more!

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page.

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it's about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!

Location

Pittsburgh, PA

Job Function

Gift Administration, Research, Planning and Data Analysis

Position Type

Staff - Regular

Full Time/Part time

Full time

Pay Basis

Salary

More Information:

  • Please visit "Why Carnegie Mellon" to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world.

  • Click here to view a listing of employee benefits

  • Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran.

  • Statement of Assurance

Applied = 0

(web-6886664d94-b4mmp)